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How the Test is Performed

Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest. These are attached by wires to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pocket or pouch worn around your neck or waist. The monitor runs on batteries.

While you wear the monitor, it records your heart's electrical activity.

Keep a diary of what activities you do while wearing the monitor, and how you feel.

After 24 - 48 hours, you will return the monitor to your doctor's office.

The doctor will look at the records and see if there have been any abnormal heart rhythms.

It is very important that you accurately record your symptoms and activities so the doctor can match them with your Holter monitor findings.

Electrodes must be firmly attached to the chest so the machine gets an accurate recording of the heart's activity.

While wearing the device, avoid:

Electric blankets

High-voltage areas

Magnets

Metal detectors

Continue your normal activities while wearing the monitor. You may be asked to exercise while being monitored if your symptoms have occurred in the past while you were exercising.

How to Prepare for the Test

You do not need to prepare for the test.

Your doctor will start the monitor. You'll be told how to replace the electrodes if they fall off or get loose.

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any tape or other adhesives. Make sure you shower or bathe before you start the test. You will not be able to do so while you are wearing a Holter monitor.

How the Test will Feel

This is a painless test. However, some people may need to have their chest shaved so the electrodes can stick.

You must keep the monitor close to your body. This may make it hard for you to sleep.

Why the Test is Performed

Holter monitoring is used to determine how the heart responds to normal activity. The monitor may also be used: